our coverage is part of pbs's "after newtown" initiative, a series of programs produced by our pbs colleagues to spark a national conversation about gun violence in america. on our web site now, find a preview of some of the stories we'll be reporting. >> woodruff: and to the analysis of shields and gerson-- syndicated columnist mark shields and "washington post" columnist michael gerson. david brooks is away this week. welcome, gentleman. so picking up, mark, on what we just heard lynn sweet telling margaret about what the president was saying today going to chicago, his hometown, how effective is it for him to be going before big audiences on this very political question of gun control? >> i think that it was certainly the highlight emotionally of the state of the union speech. i think it connected to people in that room and beyond that roomment i think can only be helpful. >> woodruff: does it seem, michael, that his chances are improving because every time he goes out and makes a speech like this? >> well, i think he has one advantage on this issue which is what he is proposing, a vote on